Hello There,

Today we would be discussing a topic that is usually perceived as difficult to approach. Here is a little secret you might not know: Most employers hardly ever make the best offer first. Therefore, intending job applicants who have effective negotiation skills would most likely earn more than the others.

On the other hand, when you ask for a higher salary in the right manner, you are perceived more positively, as long as you possess the skills the company is willing and able to pay for.

Here is a step-by-step guide to negotiating your best salary so far:

#1 - First and Foremost, Do Your Research: Before you go for an interview, make sure you do your research on what the market rates are for the job you are looking for. There are several salary surveys available online and also if you are dealing with a recruitment agency, the consultant would be able to advice you on the adequate salary for that position. Also, make sure you think through what you want from the job, as well as remuneration. If you have all these information before the interview, you will be more confident and self-assured during the interview and also the salary negotiation process.

#2- Don’t Talk About Money Too Early: Never ask about salary during your first interview. It would seem like your only motivation for the job is the money. Money should not be perceived as the motive but the incentive. While communicating with your prospective employers, ensure that you use the right tone of voice and demeanor that convey that your goal is a win-win solution. If you are too pushy, the employer would conclude that you are only interested in the money.

#3 - Give a Range, Not a Specific Number: When it is time to answer the question “What salary are you expecting?” This is where the research you have previously carried out comes to play. You would answer this question efficiently by providing a range based on what you gained from your research. You do not want to give a salary that is lower than the employer is looking to pay, neither do you want to propose an outrageous salary. At this point, make sure you emphasize that your primary interest is finding the right job for you.

#4 - Believe that you can negotiate in this economy. In some industries, it would be easier to negotiate than some others. In the public sector, the salary range is usually fixed, and negotiation is more difficult. When you are selected as a candidate the company has chosen to hire, and you have the skills and experience they need, you are then in a good position to negotiate.

#5 - Don’t be afraid to ask but also do not demand. It is a good thing that you know what you want and what you are worth, but ensure you don’t come across as rigid during the negotiation. Manner of approach and timing are two very important factors during negotiation. It is also important that the request is within the acceptable salary range. Remember to be polite and professional all through this process.

#6 - Keep Selling Yourself. During the interviewing process, subtly remind the employer how they would benefit from your skills and experiences. In other words, justify every additional penny or benefit your request. Remember to do so by focusing on the employer’s needs and not yours.

#7 - Make them Jealous. While interviewing for other jobs, you could pitch in your other offers if you have any. This would make you appear more attractive and they would be encouraged to negotiate the salary. This should speed up the interview process and help you on the long run.

#8 - Negotiate extras and be creative. If the employer can’t offer you the salary you want, think of other valuable options that would not cost as much. You can negotiate vacation days. For example, if new employees usually wait for 6 – 12 months before receiving paid holidays, ask that the restriction be reviewed or waived on your behalf. You could ask for an early salary review or negotiate a sign-on or a performance bonus.

#9 - Negotiate with confidence. Always remember to use confident body language and speech patterns while communicating. After making a salary request, do not overemphasize on the request or go ahead to further justify why you deserve a raise. Rather, make the request short and give a simple explanation of why the amount you asked for is appropriate.

 

With these negotiation tips, you should be able to negotiate your salary efficiently at your next interview.

 

Best of luck!

 

Yours Sincerely,

PushCV Content Team.